Boston’s upcoming mayoral election is spotlighting a crucial, often overlooked, aspect of urban development: the arts and culture economy. During a recent forum, leading mayoral candidates articulated their diverse strategies to invigorate this vital sector, acknowledging its profound impact on the city’s vibrancy and economic health.
The discussion centered on pressing issues such as the displacement of artists due to rising costs and lack of suitable spaces. Candidates emphasized the need for proactive measures to protect Boston’s creative community, proposing solutions ranging from direct financial support to innovative zoning adjustments that prioritize artistic endeavors.
Mayor Michelle Wu, drawing on her administration’s track record, highlighted initiatives like the Boston Family Days program and “Pillars of the Community,” both aimed at increasing public access to arts and integrating cultural elements into daily life. She underscored her focus on combating artist displacement through negotiations with developers and relocating artistic venues.
Wu detailed her administration’s allocation of $26 million towards arts organizations and individual artists, specifically targeting displacement prevention. Furthermore, she revealed ongoing efforts to integrate arts and culture considerations into major development projects and to formalize this priority through strategic city zoning changes.
Fellow candidate Domingos DaRosa proposed leveraging “sweat equity” models, similar to cooperative housing, to create affordable spaces for artists, drawing on his personal experience with limited arts exposure. Josh Kraft, on the other hand, reiterated his broader housing plans, including “opt-in rent control” and tax incentives for commercial property owners to maintain low rents for small businesses, artist studios, and galleries.
A significant point of consensus among the candidates was the critical need for alternative funding mechanisms in the face of dwindling federal support, particularly the conclusion of American Rescue Plan Act funding. Wu suggested exploring payment-in-lieu-of-taxes agreements with non-profits and fostering partnerships with local institutions to bridge financial gaps. Kraft indicated a focus on private donors and acting as an ambassador for cultural organizations.
Kraft also championed inclusivity as a cornerstone of a thriving arts sector, proposing an “All of Our Roots” program designed to celebrate Boston’s rich cultural diversity through events that blend various community facets. DaRosa underscored the importance of cultural representation in arts programming, advocating for initiatives that reflect the diverse heritage of Boston residents, including his own Cape Verdean background.
